Tourism Association Backs Sunday Openings
The Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia is speaking out in support of Sobeys and Superstore, which are challenging government restrictions aimed at preventing them from opening on Sundays. The tourism association issued a news release on Friday reaffirming its support for the deregulation of business hours.
"The restriction of business operations during Sunday has had a significant economic impact on tourism operators throughout the province," association chairwoman Susan Tilley-Russell said in the release. "Sixteen per cent of visitor expenditures are spent on retail sales. The current limitation on hours of operation results in major revenue loss to tourism operators and the government in taxes."
The association estimates a free enterprise system would inject another $24 million annually into the province. The Halifax Chamber of Commerce has also come out in support of Sunday shopping, urging shoppers to sign letters that will be sent to members of the legislature.